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Easy Blackened Salmon with Bold Cajun Spice Rub

Close-up of a thick, perfectly cooked blackened salmon fillet with a dark spice crust on a white plate.
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Make restaurant-style blackened salmon quickly at home. This recipe uses a homemade Cajun spice blend to create a flavorful, charred crust while keeping the interior tender and flaky. It is perfect for a quick weeknight seafood dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • For the Blackened Spice Rub:
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and cumin until fully combined.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve a better crust.
  3. Brush or drizzle the olive oil or melted butter evenly over all sides of the salmon fillets.
  4. Generously coat each fillet with the prepared blackened spice rub, pressing the seasoning onto the fish so it adheres well.
  5. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it is very hot. A properly hot pan is key for the blackening process.
  6. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets into the hot skillet. If using skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down first.
  7. Sear the salmon for 3 to 5 minutes without moving it to develop the dark, charred crust.
  8. Flip the fillets gently. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet and your desired doneness. The interior should be flaky.
  9. Remove the perfectly seasoned salmon from the skillet and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For an extra restaurant-style touch, serve this spicy pan-seared salmon with a creamy Dijon sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  • If you prefer a crispier skin, ensure the skin side is completely dry before adding oil and placing it in the hot pan.
  • This recipe works well for a quick salmon dinner, aiming for a total cook time under 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/blackened-salmon-recipe-easy-quick-dinner/